Collins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Book banded for guided and independent reading, there are reading notes in the back, comprehensive teaching and assessment support and ebooks available.

The Battle of Hastings was a pivotal point in England’s history. Power changed hands and the country was set on a different course. But what caused this to happen? Discover the reason for King Harold’s downfall.

Lime Plus/Band 11+ books provide challenging plots and vocabulary as well as opportunities to practise inference, prediction and reading stamina.

Pages 46 and 47 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary development and recall.

Ideas for reading in the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.

The Battle of Hastings is often remembered as the last invasion of England and a turning point in the history of the country. For Ben it represents not only a fascinating one-day battle during a pivotal time in Middle Age warfare and weaponry, but also the beginning of French rule in Britain. This lasted for over 400 years and followed Viking and Roman occupations of the country. These cultures together help make up the melting pot that is Britain today.

The history of warfare, weaponry and warriors is an endlessly fascinating subject. Among Ben’s titles in this area are books about Vikings, the Samurai, Roman gladiators and the Trojan war. Writing about the Battle of Hastings was a great excuse to look more closely at this important moment in history.